Glen Innes Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Glen Innes with this detailed travel guide. Discover the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more!


Introduction to Glen Innes

Glen Innes, a small town located in the New England region of New South Wales, Australia, is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. The town is situated on the picturesque New England Highway, approximately 600 kilometers from Sydney and 330 kilometers from Brisbane. The area is home to an abundance of flora and fauna, with national parks and nature reserves spread throughout. Its rich history, dating back to the 19th century, is evident in the architecture and museums of the town. Glen Innes is also home to a thriving arts scene, with galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists.

List of Places to Visit in Glen Innes

Glen Innes has a variety of places to visit that cater to different interests, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Here are some must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Land of the Beardies History House Museum: This museum showcases the history of Glen Innes, with exhibits showcasing the area’s pioneer settlement and historic buildings.
  • Australian Standing Stones: This unique attraction is a set of stone monoliths, similar to those found in Scotland, New Zealand, and Ireland. The stones stand tall in a beautiful parkland, which also hosts the annual Australian Celtic Festival.
  • Glen Innes & District Historical Society: This society has an extensive collection of historical artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the area’s history. Visit this museum to get an insight into the life and culture of the early settlers.

Natural Attractions of Glen Innes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gibraltar Range National Park: This national park is located approximately 70 kilometers north of Glen Innes. The park has an abundance of flora and fauna, with walking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities.
  • Washpool National Park: This national park is located approximately 45 kilometers east of Glen Innes. The park offers scenic walking trails, camping sites, and the opportunity to view rare wildlife.
  • Mount Mitchell: This scenic lookout point offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and countryside, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Glen Innes

Glen Innes has plenty of hiking and biking trails, catering to all skill levels. Here are some popular routes:

  • New England Rail Trail: This trail is approximately 19 kilometers long, passing through beautiful countryside, forests, and along waterways. It’s a perfect route for biking or walking.
  • Gibraltar-Washpool World Heritage walk: This trail offers a challenging hike through the Gibraltar Range and Washpool National Parks. This route takes approximately 4-5 days to complete, making it ideal for nature lovers who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of the area.
  • Beardy Waters Walk: This trail meanders through the Beardy Waters area, with panoramic views of the valley. This route is perfect for those seeking a leisurely walk while enjoying the scenery.

Best Things to Do in Glen Innes: Activities and Tours

Glen Innes has plenty of activities and tours that cater to different interests. Here are some popular options:

  • Celtic Country Tours: This tour offers an insight into the area’s Celtic heritage. The tour includes visiting historic homes, cemeteries, and other significant sites.
  • Gemstone Fossicking: Glen Innes is famous for its sapphires, and visitors can try their luck at finding some gems themselves. There are numerous sites to fossick, including Reddestone Creek and Emmaville.
  • Horse Riding: This activity offers a unique way to explore the countryside, with a range of trails and equestrian centers to choose from.

Week-Long Itinerary for Glen Innes

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long visit to Glen Innes:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Australian Standing Stones and the Land of the Beardies History House Museum
Day 2 Explore Washpool National Park
Day 3 Go horseback riding and visit the Celtic Country Tours
Day 4 Hike the New England Rail Trail
Day 5 Visit the Glen Innes & District Historical Society and the Emmaville Mining Museum
Day 6 Go gemstone fossicking and take a scenic drive around the town
Day 7 Spend the day at Mount Mitchell Lookout and take in the panoramic views

Food and Drink Scene of Glen Innes

Glen Innes offers an excellent selection of food and drink options for visitors. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beef and Ale Casserole: A classic comfort food available at many local restaurants.
  • Local lamb roast: The Glen Innes region is known for its high-quality lamb, making it a must-try.
  • Celtic platter: A selection of local cheeses, cured meats, and bread, showcasing the area’s Celtic heritage.

Local Beverages

  • New England Brewing Co.: This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers to enjoy with your meal.
  • Topaz Estate Winery: This picturesque vineyard offers wine tastings and cellar door sales, showcasing the area’s high-quality wines.

Where to Stay in Glen Innes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Glen Innes offers ample accommodation options for all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some popular choices include:

  • The Restpoint Motor Inn: A centrally located motel with comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • Glen Innes Motel: A budget-friendly option located close to the main attractions and restaurants.
  • Stoney River Boutique Hotel & Restaurant: A luxury hotel with spacious rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and a spa.

What to Buy in Glen Innes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Glen Innes offers many souvenir and gift options to bring home with you, showcasing the area’s history and heritage. Some popular options include:

  • Handcrafted jewelry and pottery at the Celtic Shop.
  • Locally produced honey and jams.
  • Sapphire jewelry and gemstones.

Local Culture and Customs of Glen Innes

Glen Innes has a rich Celtic heritage, and its local customs and culture reflect this. It is common to see tartan and bagpipes during local events and festivals, and many of the local restaurants and shops showcase their connection to the area’s heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect the traditions and customs of the area.

Best Time to Visit Glen Innes

Glen Innes has a temperate climate, making it a popular destination all year round. However, the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months (September-November and March-May), when the weather is mild, and the countryside is awash with vibrant colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Glen Innes

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and heritage of the area.
  • Take advantage of the numerous outdoor activities available.
  • Visit the local museums and galleries to learn about the area’s rich history.

Don’t:

  • Leave rubbish in public places.
  • Ignore safety warnings when exploring the outdoors.
  • Disrespect the local culture or customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Glen Innes

Glen Innes is a relatively safe town to visit. However, visitors are advised to take precautions, such as securing valuables and not leaving personal belongings unattended. It is also essential to follow safety guidelines when engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking or horseback riding.

Health in Glen Innes

Glen Innes has a medical center that provides primary care services. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance and consider bringing any necessary medications with them.

Getting to Glen Innes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Glen Innes is easily accessible via road and air. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Glen Innes

  • Armidale Airport: Approximately 90 kilometers east of Glen Innes.
  • Tamworth Airport: Approximately 165 kilometers south-west of Glen Innes.

Bus Stations Near Glen Innes

  • Countrylink: Provides bus services between Sydney and Glen Innes.

Other Options

  • Driving: Glen Innes is accessible via the New England Highway, with ample parking available.
  • Train: The closest train station is in Armidale, approximately 90 kilometers east of Glen Innes.

How to Get Around in Glen Innes

Glen Innes is a small town, and most of the attractions and restaurants are within walking distance. However, for those who want to explore further afield, the town offers car and bike rental options.

Where to Go Next from Glen Innes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Glen Innes is ideally located for exploring the surrounding region, with many nearby destinations and excursions. Here are some options:

  • Armidale: A charming country town located approximately 90 kilometers east of Glen Innes, known for its stunning architecture and natural beauty.
  • Tenterfield: A scenic town located approximately 75 kilometers north-west of Glen Innes, home to historic buildings and stunning scenery.
  • Bald Rock National Park: This national park is approximately 105 kilometers north-west of Glen Innes and offers scenic walking trails and stunning views.

Conclusion

Glen Innes is a hidden gem in the New England region, offering visitors an authentic experience of the Australian countryside, rich history, and vibrant culture. With numerous attractions, outdoor activities, and excellent food and drink options, Glen Innes is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Plan your trip to Glen Innes today and experience the best of what Australia has to offer!

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